Introduction
Our Master of Science (MS) in Speech-Language Pathology program combines academics with clinical experience to prepare highly trained speech-language pathologists.
Speech-language pathologists help prevent, evaluate, diagnose and manage communication disorders associated with speech, voice, language, and cognitive and swallowing impairments.
Coursework is designed and sequenced to provide you with the scientific and professional education you need to be a highly trained speech-language pathologist.
You have the option to complete a thesis. You will also have clinical experiences every term — both on and off campus — beginning with structured observations of assessment and intervention procedures.
Graduates of the program have a 100% pass rate on the national Praxis examination.
Our program is ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Rush University’s Approach to the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
Mission
The Department of Communication Disorders and Sciences at Rush University Medical Center integrates outstanding graduate education, superior patient care, excellence in research and scholarship and service to diverse communities.
Vision
The clinical and graduate education programs of the Department of Communication Disorders and Sciences will be recognized as among the best in the United States.
SLP student learning outcomes
Our program will provide students with the knowledge, skills, and aspirations to:
Demonstrate skills and proficiency in applying contemporary principles of clinical practice in the assessment and management of communication and swallowing disorders
Demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of cultural and linguistic diversity in clinical populations and environments
Engage in interprofessional practice in clinical service delivery
Be leaders in local, regional, and national professional organizations and at their institutions of employment
Praxis scores
| Praxis results of graduates from the academic year shown | # of test-takers | # of test-takers passing the exam | % of test-takers passing the exam |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-2024 | 51 | 51 | 100% |
| 2022-2023 | 55 | 55 | 100% |
| 2021-2022 | 39 | 39 | 100% |
CDS strategic plan
Communication Sciences and Disorders Strategic Plan 2022-2027
Speech-Language Pathology Master’s Program Length and Location
The Master of Science (MS) in Speech-Language Pathology program takes place on campus and takes approximately two years to complete.
On-time program completion rate
| Period | # completed within expected time frame | % completed within expected time frame |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-2024 | 49/51 | 96% |
| 2022-2023 | 50/55 | 91% |
| 2021-2022 | 36/39 | 92% |
Speech Pathology Master’s Program Tuition
At Rush University, we know your education is a big investment. We want to make sure you have all the information to be able to make the best financial decisions for you and your family.
Tuition for the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program is $1,239 per credit.
Speech-Language Pathology Career Opportunities
Employment of speech-language pathologists is expected to grow 21% through 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is much faster than the average of other careers.
The median annual wage for speech-language pathologists was $79,060 in May 2021.
Graduates of our program have a 100% employment rate within 12 months of graduation. They accept competitive positions in the Chicago area and across the country.
| Reporting period | Employment rate in profession | |
|---|---|---|
| # of graduates from prior year | % of graduates from prior year | |
| 2023-2024 | 51/51 | 100% |
| 2022-2023 | 55/55 | 100% |
| 2021-2022 | 39/39 | 100% |
After earning her MS at Rush, Carly Blodgett now works as a speech pathologist in a specialty hospital. The best part of her job? Supporting patients throughout the full length of their stay–and seeing the impact she makes on their quality of life.
College of Health SciencesAssistant ProfessorDepartment of Communication Disorders and Sciences
College of Health Sciences
College of Health Sciences
College of Health SciencesAssistant ProfessorDepartment of Communication Disorders and Sciences
College of Health Sciences
College of Health SciencesAssociate ProfessorDepartment of Communication Disorders and Sciences
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